(DePaul University/Randall Spriggs)LaSalle University has appointed Daniel J. Allen, Ph.D., DePaul senior vice president for Advancement and External Relations, as its 30th president, effective April 18, 2022. Allen has led DePaul's advancement division since July 2018 and last year was named senior vice president for advancement and external relations.
"DePaul has and will always hold a special place in my heart. I am evidence of the power of a DePaul education as it relates to how a DePaul degree can inalterably change the trajectory of a graduate and their family," Allen says. “My dad was a very proud DePaul alumnus, and my daughter and sister are both equally proud DePaul alumnae. My dad's time at DePaul serving as a manager for Ray Meyer and the men's basketball team changed his life, and I will forever be grateful."
At DePaul, Allen oversees a team of nearly 80 professionals with responsibilities for leading all university development and alumni relations strategies, advancement communication and marketing efforts, as well as community and government relations initiatives
“I want to thank the Vincentian community, Fr. Dennis Holtschneider, Dr. Esteban, the Board of Trustees, and my amazing colleagues across the university, and especially in University Advancement and External Relations, for providing me with the opportunity to serve the university, its mission, and especially DePaul students," Allen says. “I am truly grateful and hope that I was able to make the same impact on the future of the university as it has had on my family and me."
Established in 1863, La Salle University is a comprehensive Catholic university rooted in the tradition of the Brothers of the Christian Schools teaching order, which was founded by St. John Baptist de La Salle, the Patron Saint of Teachers. Known as an academic community of excellence shaped by Catholic and Lasallian values, La Salle remains steadfast in the pursuit of its mission of faith, service, community and social justice.
“LaSalle University is gaining a dedicated and compassionate leader who will serve its students well," says DePaul University President A. Gabriel Esteban, Ph.D. “Dan's extensive experience in higher education combined with his successful track record of strong donor engagement have benefited DePaul tremendously. On a personal level, Jo and I have enjoyed traveling and working with Dan, as well as getting to know his wife, Theresa. We will miss their company."
Allen holds bachelor's and master's degrees from Loras College and completed his Ph.D. at Loyola University–Chicago.
“The board is extremely grateful for Dan's many contributions to the university," says Gerald A. Beeson, chair of DePaul University's Board of Trustees. “His impact has been profound and his commitment to DePaul's Catholic, Vincentian mission has given countless students access to higher education. We wish him all the best in this next chapter of his life."
Details regarding an interim leader for the division will be shared soon.